It is important to assess any likely risk of disaster with your veterinarian so you can prepare for them in advance. Discuss your risks, ways to minimize damage, emergency contacts, and action plans. Such risks include:

• Chemical spill
• Disease
• Earthquake
• Fire
• Flood
• Hurricane
• Ice storm
• Nuclear accident
• Tornado

For each type of emergency, plan the safest place for your animals and prepare for the need to evacuate. In case of evacuation, your trailers and vehicles should stay fueled up. Have each horse’s identification and other insurance and care information in a go-bag and arrange any alternative housing for them in advance. Microchipping is a convenient, permanent form of identification. This is important so you may prove ownership of the horses, especially if they become lost during an emergency. Keep 72 hours-worth of water and hay provisions at all times. Be sure to practice your plans ahead of time so during a true emergency, you can leave as quickly as possible and remain calm. It is important to make sure your horses load well before the stress of a disaster.

Connect with a neighbor and plan for emergencies together. Know the other’s plans so you can locate each other or provide information to the authorities. You also may be able to pool larger resources like generators or water tanks.